Teach with Purpose. Lead with Impact.
Advance your teaching practice or step into the classroom with confidence through a flexible, fully online graduate program.
Program Overview
The Master of Education in Elementary Education at Elizabeth City State University prepares educators to become effective teachers, collaborators, and instructional leaders in today’s classrooms.
This 100% online program offers flexibility for working professionals while aligning with:
- National teaching standards
- North Carolina Standards for Graduate Teacher Candidates
- Best practices in P–12 education
Students can choose from two pathways designed to meet different career goals:
- Initial Licensure
- Teacher Leadership
What You’ll Gain
- Advanced instructional strategies for elementary classrooms
- Leadership skills to influence school and student success
- Preparation for teacher licensure or career advancement
- Expertise aligned with national and state teaching standards
- Real-world application through research and practice
Degree Requirements
Teacher Leadership
Designed for licensed teachers with a focus on:
- Instructional leadership
- Data-driven decision-making
- Mentorship and collaboration
Initial Licensure
- Designed for individuals seeking to become licensed elementary teachers
- Prepares candidates for the role of lead classroom teacher
- Includes pathways for North Carolina Residency Licensure
Degree Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Delivery Format | 100% Online |
| Tracks | Teacher Leader or Initial Licensure (K–6) |
| Full-Time Load | 9 credit hours/semester |
| Max Per Semester | 12 credit hours |
- Includes core coursework, track-specific courses, and a culminating project
- Designed with both traditional and accelerated pathways
Curriculum Highlights
Students engage in coursework focused on:
- Educational research and data analysis
- Learning theories and instructional strategies
- Curriculum design and assessment
- Classroom leadership and management
Coursework is paired with practical application and a final Product of Learning, guided by a faculty committee.
Culminating Experience
All students complete a Product of Learning, which includes:
- A research-based or practice-based project
- Application of instructional or leadership strategies
- Evaluation by a Graduate Advisement Committee
This experience ensures graduates can apply knowledge directly in real educational settings.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must submit the following:
– Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
– Minimum 2.5 GPA overall – OR 3.0 in last 60 credit hours
– Higher GPA pathways available for graduate-level coursework
Teacher Leader Track:
Valid NC “A” teaching license (or equivalent)
– Official transcripts (all institutions)
– 3 professional recommendations (education-related)
– Two-page essay on an educational topic
– Completed application + fee
– ECSU health form
– Interview (if required)
GRE or MAT recommended (not required)
Transfer Credits & Residency
- Up to 6 credit hours may transfer
- Minimum 30 credit hours must be completed at ECSU
Candidates in the Master of Education in Elementary Education program must meet the Elizabeth City State University residency requirements. No more than six credit hours may be transferred from other institutions. Thirty semester hours must be earned at ECSU.
Progression & Retention
To advance in the program, students must:
- Complete 12–15 credit hours with a 3.0 GPA (Advance to Candidacy)
- Earn no more than two grades of “C”
Advisement & Support
Students are supported by a Graduate Advisement Committee, which includes:
- Faculty advisor
- Additional faculty members (including one outside the department)
Support includes:
- Academic planning
- Project development
- Program progression guidance
- Final project approval
Program Leadership
Assistant Professor of Elementary Education | Gilchrist Education & Psychology Complex, Room 248
kbstoffel@ecsu.edu | 252-335-3916
Basnight Endowed Professor | Gilchrist Education & Psychology Complex, Room 251
tagoodale@ecsu.edu | 252-335-3767
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